🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Model Generation:

FC (Second Generation)

Production Years Covered:

1989-1991

Chassis Codes:

FC3S, FC3C

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Iconic Japanese sports car, renowned for its rotary engine and balanced chassis. Competed with cars like the Nissan 300ZX, Toyota Supra, and Porsche 944.

Key Competitors Era:

Mid-to-late 1980s and early 1990s sports coupe segment.

Rotary Engine:

Unique Wankel rotary engine technology offering a smooth, high-revving power delivery.

Chassis Design:

Excellent weight distribution and handling characteristics, often praised for its balance and driver engagement.

Design Era:

Distinctive wedge-shaped styling with pop-up headlights, characteristic of 1980s sports car design.

📋 Manual Details

All Models Covered:

Yes

Repair Scope:

A-Z (All repairs covered)

Estimated Page Count:

Thousands (Specific count not provided, but described as 'full & complete')

Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine And Powertrain:

Rotary engine (13B), ignition system, fuel system, exhaust, cooling, lubrication, engine management (ECU), transmission (manual and automatic), driveline, driveshafts, differential.

Chassis And Suspension:

Front suspension (independent, MacPherson strut), rear suspension (independent, multi-link), steering system (power assisted), brakes (front and rear discs, ABS), wheels and tires, chassis and frame.

Electrical And Electronics:

Wiring diagrams, lighting system, battery and charging system, starting system, instrument cluster, gauges, body control modules, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), audio system, climate control electronics.

Body And Interior:

Exterior body panels, doors, hood, trunk, spoilers, trim, interior trim, seats, dashboard, HVAC system (ducts, controls), body sealing, corrosion protection.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, fluid checks and top-offs.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical circuit testing, component testing procedures.

Repair And Rebuild:

Engine teardown and reassembly, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component replacement, body panel repair and replacement.

Specifications And Data:

Torque specifications, clearances, alignment data, fluid capacities, diagnostic parameters, wiring schematics.

Depth:

Comprehensive (Covering all major repair topics in great detail, suitable for professional use).

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text within the PDF (standard for professional manuals).

Quality Description:

Designed for 'easy to read' format, implying clear text and diagrams.

Binding:

Not applicable (Digital PDF format).

Paper:

Not applicable (Digital PDF format).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel)

Engine Code:

13B

Rotor Design:

Twin Rotor

Displacement Equivalent:

2.6 Liters (654cc x 2 rotors)

Aspiration 1989-1991 Base:

Naturally Aspirated (NA)

Aspiration 1989-1991 Turbo:

Turbocharged (FC Turbo II)

Horsepower Na:

Approx. 160-170 hp

Torque Na:

Approx. 150-155 lb-ft

Horsepower Turbo:

Approx. 200-210 hp

Torque Turbo:

Approx. 200-205 lb-ft

Fuel Delivery:

Fuel Injection (Electronic Fuel Injection - EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)

Oil Type Recommendation:

Rotary-specific oil (e.g., API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30/10W-40 recommended by Mazda, check manual for specifics).

Apex Seals:

Critical wear component; proper lubrication and avoiding detonation are key for longevity.

Oil Metering:

Separate oil metering system for apex seals, requires specific attention and maintenance.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Base:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Type Optional:

4-Speed Automatic (Optional on some models)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic Clutch System

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Mazda GL-5 SAE 75W-90 or equivalent (check manual for exact specification and capacity).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mazda ATF Type T or equivalent (check manual for exact specification and capacity).

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Coupe, Convertible (Cabriolet)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 95.7 inches (2430 mm)

Length:

Approx. 167.7 inches (4260 mm)

Width:

Approx. 68.7 inches (1745 mm)

Height:

Approx. 49.2 inches (1250 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2800-3100 lbs (1270-1406 kg), varies by model and equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Specific NHTSA ratings for this era may not be readily available in the same format as modern vehicles. Focus would be on underlying safety systems.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on Turbo models and as an option on some NA models.

Limited Slip Differential:

Optional limited-slip differential (LSD) for improved traction during acceleration and cornering.

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners.

Body Structure:

Reinforced chassis and body structure for impact protection.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette stereo with optional CD player. Speakers typically located in doors and rear deck.

Instrumentation:

Analog gauges including tachometer, speedometer, oil pressure, water temperature, and voltmeter. Boost gauge on Turbo models.

Cruise Control:

Available on most models.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors were common features.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, but rotary engines can benefit from more frequent changes. Refer to manual.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles, depending on plug type and driving conditions. Rotary-specific plugs required.

Timing Belt Inspection:

Not applicable (Rotary engines do not have timing belts, but have a chain or gears for the rotor housing.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.

Engine Coolant:

Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant or equivalent (Ethylene Glycol based, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water). Check manual for exact type.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (ensure it meets specifications, check manual).

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent ATF (check manual for exact specification).

Apex Seal Wear:

Premature wear if not maintained properly; symptoms include loss of compression, poor starting, and rough running.

Oil Consumption:

Rotary engines inherently consume oil as part of their lubrication system; it's important to monitor and top off. Excessive consumption is an issue.

Thermal Management:

Can be sensitive to overheating; ensuring cooling system is in good condition is crucial.

Emissions Control Systems:

Early rotary emissions systems can be complex and require specialized knowledge for maintenance.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary Legacy:

Mazda's commitment to rotary engine technology, dating back to the Cosmo and RX series.

First Generation Rx-7:

The FC generation followed the SA/FB RX-7, introducing more modern styling and improved technology.

Fc Design Influence:

Influenced by the Porsche 944 and contemporary sports car design trends.

Turbo Ii Introduction:

The Turbo II variant significantly boosted performance and appeal.

Production Period:

1985-1992 (FC generation worldwide). This manual covers the later years of this generation.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The FC RX-7, particularly the Turbo II, was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list during its production years.

Handling Reputation:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its exceptional handling and balance.

Motor Trend Import Car Of The Year:

While not definitively awarded for 1989-1991, the FC generation received significant accolades in its early years.